AMBETE, GABON
WOOD, STRAW, COWRIE SHELLS, HEIGHT 80CM

Very old natural patina. The opening at the back is closed with a perfectly fitted door. The cavity was used to hold bones and other personal belongings of the deceased. This figure was “dressed up” with a raffia skirt for a ceremonial occasion, something that seems to have become a tradition with households that still honour the old traditions. The left leg at one stage had to be re-attached to the body, so it had to be partly cleaned of the encrusted patina.